On 13 January 2025… the Italian Cultural Institute in Addis Ababa hosted an event titled “Higher Education, Research, and Innovation Collaboration between Italy and Ethiopia.”
- This initiative, promoted by Italy’s Ministry of University and Research (MUR) in collaboration with the Med-Or Italian Foundation and the Italian Embassy in Ethiopia, aims to strengthen research and innovation partnerships across Africa.
- This initiative is a cornerstone of Italy’s “Mattei Plan for Africa,” which seeks to promote sustainable development and international collaboration.
- With its strategic position and rapidly growing economy, Ethiopia is a vital partner for Italy in achieving these objectives.
The bottom line. Italy’s collaboration with Ethiopia serves as a model for equitable partnerships founded on mutual respect, shared goals, and innovation—principles at the heart of the Meloni government’s Africa strategy.
- The two nations are setting a precedent for regional progress and global stability by prioritising education, research, and sustainable development.
The event. The conference served as a preparatory step for Italy’s Minister of University and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, ‘s upcoming visit to Ethiopia.
- Discussions focused on key areas such as infrastructure, space, water resource management, cybersecurity, agritech, and urban development.
- Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia Agostino Palese inaugurated the event, with Massimo Khairallah from the Med-Or Italian Foundation moderating the discussions.
- Participants included representatives from major Italian companies—such as the Future Farming Initiative, Mermec Group, Bonifiche Ferraresi, and Leonardo—alongside Ethiopian stakeholders from academia, business, and government.
The bigger picture. This event reflects Italy’s ongoing efforts to strengthen industrial, academic, and cultural ties with African nations.
- Following a similar initiative in Morocco just months ago, it underscores Italy’s strategic investment in Africa’s future through innovation and collaboration.
What’s next? Ethiopian stakeholders showed significant interest in telemedicine and professional higher education, which aligns with the “Health” pillar of the Mattei Plan.
- Italy plans to build on this momentum, using its partnership model to tackle regional challenges while fostering mutual growth.
- Ethiopia is a central focus of the Mattei Plan, which emphasises the importance of stability in the Horn of Africa for regional and global security.
- Today, Italian aerospace company Leonardo and agro-industrial group BF SpA signed an agreement with the Italian government to implement agricultural projects in Ethiopia and other African nations as part of the Mattei Plan.
Ethiopia as a strategic partner. With a population of over 125 million and one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, Ethiopia is a linchpin in the Horn of Africa and the broader Indo-Mediterranean region.
- Its strategic location links key maritime routes from the Indo-Pacific to the Mediterranean, adding geopolitical importance to its development.
Zoom in. Med-Or promotes international collaboration in academia, science, and business, focusing on the expanded Mediterranean region.
- In 2024, the foundation strengthened its presence in Africa through a partnership with MUR, paving the way for structured cooperation in research and innovation.
- The Addis Ababa event showcased Med-Or’s critical role in connecting Italian and African expertise, fostering economic growth, and advancing cultural and academic exchange.
